The current situation unfolding in Ukraine is nothing short of frightening. Hundreds of civilians have died, including more than a hundred children, as millions of Ukrainians have been displaced and forced to flee as Russia tries to seize power.
Everyone is doing all they can to help, and Mercyhurst is no different.
On March 14, President Kathleen Getz sent a message to the community of Mercyhurst expressing her willingness to help Ukraine.
“Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is devastating to the people of Ukraine and has deeply affected many others, including members of our own community,” Getz said.
“I know I speak for all of us at Mercyhurst when I say our thoughts are with everyone involved. In times of crisis, the community of Mercyhurst has risen to support others. I urge you to show your solidarity with the people of Ukraine through this effort and to continue to pray for a speedy resolution leading to lasting peace.
Part of Mercyhurst’s support for Ukraine includes working with State Representative Bob Merski’s office as well as our sister city of Lublin, Poland to collect donations for humanitarian relief.
The campaign, which began on March 14, is accepting donations of personal hygiene items, underwear, bed linen, towels, first aid kits, bandages and non-perishable food items. All donations can be dropped off in the receptacles just outside the President’s office.
In addition, there was a prayer service organized by the Sisters of Mercy on March 1.
“Granted, many people in the MU community have already donated to established charities to support Ukraine, but the donation campaign that was shared by President Getz’s office is all we have planned at the moment. university at the moment,” said Dr. Greg Baker, vice president. President for Mission.
“This is a collaborative effort with State Representative Bob Merski and the sister city of Erie in Poland, where many Ukrainian refugees are currently being cared for.”
Everyone in the community is concerned and everyone wants to help.
“From the moment this invasion of Ukraine took place, I’ve heard concerned people in the MU community wondering what we can do,” Baker said.
“But we are moving appropriately from prayer to action. War causes so much unnecessary death and suffering, and the plight of those forced to migrate (already more than 3 million people have fled the country to Poland alone) leaves large numbers of people with basic life needs. .
Mercyhurst students can do a lot to show solidarity and action.
“We recognize that students may not have a lot of disposable income, but every little but helps,” Baker said.
“Students can donate items they already have, or they can consider forgoing an expensive cup of coffee or other luxury and share the money they’ve saved to buy necessities with these refugees. . We are part of one interconnected human family. Our tradition of Mercy calls us to solidarity with those who suffer and to work to support the common good. This crisis in Ukraine calls on the kindness of people around the world (including those of us at MU) to do our part.
Every little thing matters, so try to help and spread the word in any way you can.
